Montague Dawson R.S.M.A., F.R.S.A.

Frost & Reed, London (acquired directly from the artist and taken to stock, October 30, 1930, no. 10630)
Cooling Galleries (acquired from the above, October 30, 1930) 
Kennedy Galleries, New York
Sale: Sotheby's, New York, February 27, 1986, lot 111, illustrated
Private Collection (acquired at the above sale)
Thence by descent

Strip-lined, recently cleaned. Under UV: Spot of inpainting in sky at left of ship.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Built in 1865-66 by William Walker & Co.,  Shun Lee was of composite design, a wood construction over an iron frame, measuring 158 feet in length with a 31 1/2 foot beam and featuring long overhangs at bow and stern.  As her name suggests, the clipper was intended for the China tea trade, but after only one trip was sold in 1871 to Potter & Co., London, thereafter she then saw most action in the commercial routes between London and New Zealand.  The Shun Lee was destroyed by fire when stationed in Rio de Janerio in 1891.  Crew members falsely accused the mate of setting the blaze but were later forced to pay the costs of the inquiry when the true cause was revealed to be spontaneous combustion.